In 2021, there were a number of significant new automobile introductions, but the only way to know if they went directly to the top of their categories was to test them out against the existing best.

Each month, a series of group tests ranging from city cars to supercars, luxury cars, and SUVs are done to determine which vehicles ought to be at the top of your purchasing list.

So, if you’re looking for a new car, check out this list of the top group tests conducted in 2021.

January

BMW 5 Series vs Audi A6 vs Volvo S60 PHEV

The majority of company car purchasers in 2021 chose plug-in hybrid power because it offered cheaper tax rates and fuel expenses than combustion-powered alternatives while still providing greater flexibility than complete EVs. 

The superb BMW 530e was clearly superior to its competitors in this contest, with the best technology, great handling, and – most importantly – the highest efficiency. The Volvo S90 T8 just edged out the Audi A6 50 TFSI e in a tight race for second.

BMW 5 Series vs Audi A6 vs Volvo S90. Group tests

Toyota GR Yaris vs Ford Fiesta ST

Despite the fact that both cars are powered by a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, their approaches are very different. The Fiesta is a traditional front-wheel-drive hot hatch, but the Yaris has all-wheel drive. None of these models, on the other hand, was short on thrills. 

The Fiesta has a bouncy chassis, crisp steering, and responsive engine, but we didn’t think it offered enough in Edition trim to justify the additional money above the regular ST. The Yaris, on the other hand, demonstrated to be a bargain in terms of performance. It was slightly more serious compared to the Fiesta, but it was incredibly speedy in cross-country.

Toyota GR Yaris vs Ford Fiesta ST

February

BMW 128ti vs Volkswagen Golf GTI

Volkswagen has long dominated the hot-hatch market, combining performance with everyday utility. However, the test in February revealed that BMW has stepped up to challenge the Golf GTI’s dominance. Interestingly, it’s also less expensive.

BMW 128ti vs VW Golf GTI

Hyundai Tucson vs Lexus NX

The distinction between premium and mainstream SUVs is blurring, and the Hyundai Tucson is the newest contender to compete with established high-end manufacturers. It has a more modern appearance, with in-car technology being one of its attractions. Tucson’s hybrid system was more powerful and efficient than the NX’s petrol-electric setup, and both cars were comfortable and refined cruisers.

Hyundai Tucson vs Lexus NX

March

BMW M3 vs Alfa Giulia Quadrifoglio

We realized that the M3 was better than ever before, owing to a wider range of capabilities that made it not just a more capable road car but also a magnificent race machine. We also liked the Giulia, which had a fantastic engine and chassis, but the technology and build quality meant it wasn’t much of a road car. BMW won this one.

BMW M3 vs Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

April

Cupra Formentor vs Porsche Macan vs Alfa Romeo Stelvio

In April, we pitted the Porsche Macan against the new Cupra Formentor and the Alfa Romeo Stelvio in its first group test, which proved to be a difficult task. The new Cupra did an excellent job, coming second behind the Porsche. The Macan was a joy to drive, and the Cupra was not far behind, providing lots of practicality. The Alfa Romeo was the most expensive of the group.

Cupra Formentor vs Porsche Macan vs Alfa Romeo Stelvio

June

Fiat 500 vs MINI Electric vs Honda e

The new Fiat 500 won because it provided everything a city car needs in a more affordable form. It’s just as elegant, easy to drive, and quiet as the competition, but it’s less expensive and has a longer real-world range. It’s among the greatest EVs on the market, and not just in the city car segment.

Fiat 500 vs MINI Electric vs Honda e

August

Isuzu D-Max vs Ford Ranger

The new Isuzu D-Max pick-up was put up against the superb Ford Ranger this summer. The Ford won out in the end, owing to a smoother and more powerful engine, a superior gearbox, and a more pleasant ride, but the Isuzu was a strong contender. It was well-priced,  better off-road, well-equipped, and came with a long guarantee, but its noisy engine was a disappointment.

Isuzu D-Max vs Ford Ranger

September

Audi e-tron vs Porsche Taycan

It comes down to simple math to determine a winner in this case. The Taycan’s Porsche label is as near to an assurance of rock-solid residuals as you’ll encounter in the new-car market. It translates into more appealing loan payments on a PCP contract than its Audi competitor.

Audi e-tron GT vs Porsche Taycan

October

Tesla Model Y vs Audi Q4 e-tron

A simple aspect helped the Model Y win: the Tesla Supercharger network. Whereas Audi has to depend on a confusing number of charging businesses, Tesla’s own top-up points are without a doubt the best available. Most major car manufacturers have produced similarly capable EVs as Tesla, but none will be as comfortable to live with until the charging issue is resolved.

Tesla Model Y vs Audi Q4 e-tron

Volvo C40 vs Cupra Born vs Mercedes EQA

Cupra’s initial bespoke EV, the Born, has a distinct personality from its VW ID counterpart. The Mercedes EQA was pleased with its elegance and in-car technology, while the 3 sister had a sportier vibe. The Volvo C40, on the other hand, fell short, with mediocre cabin quality and a hefty price, despite its good performance.

Volvo C40 vs Cupra Born vs Mercedes EQA

November

Volkswagen Polo vs SEAT Ibiza vs Hyundai i20 

The Volkswagen Polo received mild updates, including more technology on the inside and adjusting the already-mature appearance to better line it with the new Mk8 Golf. The Polo was pitted against the SEAT Ibiza, which was redesigned around the same time.

The Hyundai i20, however, the VW came up short, with the i20 winning the group tests. The Hyundai had greater ergonomics, was much more fun to drive, and was also more economical owing to mild-hybrid technology.

Volkswagen Polo vs SEAT Ibiza vs Hyundai i20